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TWO LEGACIES, ONE HARVEST Celebrating 25 Years of Dianne’s Call & 10 Years of FarmaSis

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September 2026

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September 2026

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

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Publisher’s Letter

Dear Natural Awakenings family, As I write this letter from our Women’s Wellness Retreat in the beautiful Tennessee mountains, I cannot help but reflect on the landscape surrounding me. The mountains rise with strength and majesty, but between every peak lies a valley. Together, they create a view that is breathtaking—not despite the valleys, but because of them. Life is much the same. We celebrate the peaks: the answered prayers, successful plans, new opportunities and moments when everything seems to fall perfectly into place. Yet life also brings valleys—unexpected changes, disappointments, delays and circumstances completely beyond our control. No matter how carefully we prepare, life has a way of reminding us that we cannot control every outcome. What we can control is how we respond. There are seasons when we must be willing to shift when life shifts and pivot when the path in front of us changes. That does not mean we have failed. It does not mean the vision was wrong. Sometimes it simply means there is another route, one we could not see from where we were standing. I know how easy it is to become consumed by frustration when things do not unfold as expected. We can spend so much time grieving the plan we had that we overlook the possibility unfolding before us. We may become so focused on the closed door that we fail to notice the open window—or the entirely new road waiting just beyond it. But what if the interruption is an invitation? What if the delay is providing protection, preparation or redirection? What if what feels like a setback is making room for something greater than what we originally imagined? The valley may feel uncomfortable, but it can deepen our roots, strengthen our faith and teach us lessons the mountaintop never could. This retreat has reminded me that stillness gives us room to see more clearly. When we pause, breathe and release our need to force an outcome, we become more open to wisdom. We can ask, “What is this moment teaching me?” instead of only asking, “Why is this happening to me?” That small shift in perspective can change everything. Wellness requires that same willingness to listen and adjust. Our bodies, minds and spirits are always communicating with us. When we honor those signals rather than pushing past them, we create space for healing, balance and a renewed sense of direction. As we move into September and a new season, I encourage you to remain open. Hold your plans with intention, but not so tightly that you cannot receive something better. Give yourself permission to adjust without shame, to begin again without apology and to trust that a changed direction can still lead to a beautiful destination. The peaks and valleys are both part of the journey. Keep moving, keep believing and keep your heart open. Greater may be waiting where you least expect it. With gratitude and care,

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Contents 12 Clean Clothes, Cleaner Planet 13 Hidden in Plain Sight

Educate. Connect. Thrive. Make an impact in your community

14 The Oldest House in Camden

15 A Calmer Classroom Starts With You 16 A 25-Year Journey of Healing, Purpose and Legacy 18 Home Energy Resilience

20 Healing Harmonies 22 Introduction to Somatic Therapies 26 Homeopathy Under the Microscope

28 Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility 30 Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

Departments 6 News Briefs 10 Health Briefs 11 Global Briefs 12 Eco Tip 13 Midlands Matters

Call today!

14 Walking Through 22 Feature Story Yesterday 26 Homeopathy 15 Local Buzz 28 Fit Body 16 Cover Story 30 Natural Pet 18 Green Living 33 Wellness Word Play 20 Healing Ways 34 Resource Guide

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September 2026

News Briefs

Celebrate 250 Years With Chapin’s Labor Day Parade

Chapin’s Labor Day weekend celebration returns Saturday, September 5, through Monday, September 7, bringing the community together to honor history, patriotism and the nation’s 250th anniversary. This year’s parade theme—Stars, Stripes and Service: Celebrating 250 Years—honors the spirit and legacy that unite the community. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations are invited to take part in the parade with creative, patriotic floats and ideas. The celebration offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together for this milestone year. For more information, including start times, locations, prices or sponsorship opportunities, visit ChapinSC.com/269/Labor-Day-Weekend-Celebration---2026.

Raise a Glass at Main Street Mimosa Festival

Columbia’s Main Street Mimosa Festival will be held Sunday, September 6, from 3 to 8 p.m., offering an afternoon of signature mimosas, live music, DJs, local food vendors and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Described as Columbia’s biggest mimosa festival, the event promises to be a lively day party filled with music, flavor and fun. VIP tables also will be available for those looking to make the occasion extra special. Cost: $23.18. Location: 1515 Main St., Columbia. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite.com/e/main-street-mimosa-festivaltm-columbias-ultimate-day-party-experience-tickets-1988459988353?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

Discover Fresh Finds Every Tuesday

The Community Artisans and Farmers Market will take place Tuesdays between 2 and 6 p.m. through October 27 in Columbia. The weekly market will feature fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, dog treats, boiled peanuts, pork skins, lemonade and specialty “dirty” drinks. Shoppers can also browse handcrafted skin care products designed for all skin types. In addition to local food and artisan offerings, the market aims to provide a family-friendly gathering place where community members can connect and support local vendors. Admission is free. Location: 1320 Clemson Rd., Columbia. For more information, call 803-807-3238 or visit Communityafm.org.

Experience Greece at Annual Greek Festival

Columbia’s annual Greek Festival will be held Thursday, September 17, through Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, from noon to 6 p.m. Hosted by Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the festival invites guests to experience Greek music, food, drinks and hospitality while learning more about the country’s culture and traditions. Admission is free. Location: 1931 Sumter St., Columbia. For more information, visit ColumbiasGreekFestival.com. 6

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Find Your Balance With Pilates in the Galleries

See James Taylor Live

Five-time Grammy-winning, multi-platinum singer-songwriter James Taylor will perform Friday, September 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Colonial Life Arena. Taylor is the archetypal singer-songwriter who helped create the template for the troubadour style that became prominent in the 1970s. When he brings his blend of folk, pop, rock and soul influences to the stage, a part of music history comes alive before the crowd. Taylor introduced songs like Fire and Rain and You’ve Got a Friend to the collective pop-cultural consciousness in the ‘70s, and they’ve stayed there ever since. Of course, he’s continued to make compelling music for many decades, and his shows are a mix of new tunes and beloved classics. Location: 801 Lincoln St., Columbia. For more information, including cost, or to purchase tickets, visit ColonialLifeArena.com/ events/detail/james-taylor-1.

Pilates in the Galleries will be held Tuesday, September 8, and Tuesday, September 22, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia Museum of Art (CMA), offering participants a chance to end the day with a restorative fullbody Pilates session surrounded by works of art in the CMA Collection galleries. Led by Michaela Leung, the classes combine classical Pilates principles with contemporary movement for a balanced, mindful workout.

Each session includes exercises to strengthen the core, improve flexibility and enhance posture, with modifications offered for all experience levels. Energizing playlists ranging from hip-hop to indie music add to the welcoming atmosphere. No prior experience is necessary. Mats are provided, although participants may bring their own mats and yoga props. The classes are open to participants ages 13 and older; unaccompanied minors are not permitted. Cost: $20; $16 for members. Location: 1515 Main St., Columbia. For more information or to register, visit ColumbiaMuseum.org/events/pilates-galleries-5.

Discover Columbia’s Birds on a Guided Garden Walk

Participants can join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for free, guided bird walks through the gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion on Thursdays September 10 and 24, from 8 to 9 a.m. With more than 100 bird species visiting the gardens throughout the year, the walks will offer an opportunity to learn about local and migratory birds and how to identify them by sight, sound and behavior. Participants should meet at the front gate of the Hampton-Preston Mansion on Blanding Street. Binoculars are highly recommended but not required. Advanced registration is required. Location: 1615 Blanding St., Columbia. For more information or to register, visit HistoricColumbia.org/birdwatching.

Make Family Memories at Carnival Day

Carnival Day at Venture X will be held Thursday, September 17, from 5 to 7 p.m., offering an evening of magic, games, Olly the Otter, food and family fun. All proceeds benefit Kids’ Day, giving families a chance to enjoy a carnival-themed evening while supporting a good cause. Cost: $25 per family. Location: 1901 Main St., 18th Floor, Columbia. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite. com/e/carnival-day-at-venture-x-with-ollythe-otter-and-magic-by-john-tudor-tickets1997036218087?aff=ebdsoporgprofile.

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News Briefs

Check Your Child’s Car Seat for Safety

tified Child Passenger Safety Technician.

Prisma Health Richland Children’s Hospital offers free weekly car seat and booster seat safety inspections by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Appointments will include car and booster seat installation and education for caregivers by a cer-

Car seats and boosters provide protection for infants and children in a crash, yet car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13. Choosing and using the right car seat correctly every time a child is in the car is essential for safety. Location: 7 Medical Park Dr., Columbia. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Eventbrite.com/e/child-passenger-safety-inspections-prisma-health-childrens-hospital-tickets-358584555057?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

Explore Columbia’s Cafe Scene at Cola Cafe Fest

The Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center will host the Cola Cafe Fest from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, September 27. The daylong event is a curated celebration of Columbia’s café scene, bringing together local makers, roasters and bakers to highlight quality, creativity and small businesses. Attendees can explore offerings from local vendors and connect with members of the community while celebrating the people and businesses that contribute to Columbia’s café culture. Location: 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia. For more information, including cost and vendor opportunities, visit ColaCafeFest.com.

See Columbia Through a Photographer’s Lens

The Columbia Museum of Art will offer a photographic tour of Columbia through the lens of Richard Samuel Roberts on Thursday, September 10, from 6 to 7 p.m. Led by docent Heather Preston, the Focal Points gallery talk will explore Roberts’ work and perspective on the city. Although Roberts is considered one of South Carolina’s most important photographers, he was largely forgotten for decades after his death. Focal Points is a series of gallery talks exploring topics and themes of particular interest to museum docents and staff. Free with membership or admission. Location: 1515 Main St., Columbia. For more information, visit ColumbiaMuseum.org/ events/focal-points-tour-richard-samuel-roberts-columbia.

Celebrate Culture and Community at Rebirth of Soul

Rebirth of Soul comes to Allen University on Saturday, September 26, for an evening of entertainment, culture and community building. Doors open at 6 p.m. The celebration will showcase talent from across the Carolinas, honor the Rawtopian Bliss Columbia customer community and feature a holistic vendors market. The event also supports fundraising for the Rawtopian Bliss production and training kitchen planned for spring 2027. Location: 1530 Harden St., Columbia. For more information, including cost, tickets, sponsorship opportunities or donations, text 803-201-3547 or visit RebirthOfSoul.org.

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Join the Celebration of Two Lasting Legacies

Dianne’s Call Natural Living and FarmaSis will celebrate two remarkable milestones with Two Legacies, One Harvest on Saturday, September 26. This special event honors 25 years of Dianne’s Call and 10 years of FarmaSis, bringing together two legacies rooted in natural living, agriculture and community. Guests are invited to join the celebration and recognize the impact these organizations have made throughout the years. Location: 351 Bama Rd., Gilbert. For more information, including cost, or to purchase tickets, call 803-479-2231 or visit DiannesCall.org or TheFarmaSis.com.

State Museum Offers $1 First Sunday Admission

The South Carolina State Museum will continue with its first Sunday initiative from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, September 6, offering $1 general admission through sponsorship support from BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. Visitors can explore four floors of exhibits featuring South Carolina art, cultural history, natural history, and science and technology. General admission also includes access to the Boeing Observatory and the Robert B. Arial Collection of Historical Astronomy on the museum’s fourth floor. For an additional cost, guests can also enjoy a planetarium show and/or a 4D theater movie. Cost: $1. Location: 301 Gervais St., Columbia. For more information, visit SCMuseum.org/ events/first-sunday.

Turn Up the Fun With Music Bingo Nights

Music lovers can test their song knowledge and compete for prizes during Music Bingo at Savage Craft every Wednesday through September 16 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Hosted by DJ Alexis, the free event replaces traditional bingo numbers with popular songs, challenging participants to identify tunes, sing along and mark their cards for a chance to win prizes. Designed for both devoted music fans and casual listeners, Music Bingo offers an interactive evening of entertainment with a mix of friendly competition and familiar hits. The event is suitable for groups of friends, date nights or those looking for a midweek outing. Location: 430 Center St., West Columbia. For more information, call 803-673-2569 or visit SavageCraft.com/upcoming-events.

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September 2026

Health Briefs

A subsequent cross-sectional study published this year in the European Heart Journal further evaluated the relationship between plastic pollution and cardiovascular health. The study involved 61 participants suspected of having coronary artery disease who underwent coronary angiography—a specialized X-ray test that uses contrast dye to visualize blood flow through the arteries. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the angiography results: severe, life-threatening heart attack caused by coronary artery blockage; chronic coronary disease (CCD); and normal coronary arteries (control group).

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Researchers measured the concentration of MNPs in the coronary and surrounding blood of each patient. MNPs were detected more frequently, in higher concentrations and with greater diversity, in the heart attack group (84.2 percent) compared to the CCD (40 percent) and control (31.8 percent) groups. Detection of MNPs was also associated with elevated inflammatory markers. Notably, MNPs were more frequently detected in smokers and those exposed to air pollution. The co-authors of the study noted the significant impact of lifestyle choices and exposure to pollutants on heart health.

Microbiome Effects on Colorectal Cancer Risk

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between unstable free radicals and antioxidants, leading to cell and tissue damage, potentially increasing inflammation and the risk of chronic conditions. Intense physical activity generates high levels of free radicals, and antioxidant supplementation is often recommended for athletes. A 2024 study in the journal Sports investigated whether oxidative stress could be managed by a combination of black chokeberry and bee pollen, a natural formulation with a balanced ratio of macro- and micronutrients rich in proteins and polyphenols. The study divided 29 combat fighters into a supplementation group that consumed 40 grams of black chokeberry and bee pollen daily in a ratio of two-to-one for four weeks and a control group that received no supplementation. Although the supplementation group exhibited no significant changes in inflammatory markers, body composition, maximum aerobic capacity, glycemic index, hemoglobin or red blood cell line, they did demonstrate a statistically significant increase in plasma antioxidant capacity. The researchers concluded that the black chokeberry and bee pollen supplement was a good source of antioxidants, proteins and carbohydrates for an athlete’s diet.

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A 2024 study in The New England Journal of Medicine involving more than 300 participants revealed a significant association between carotid artery plaque containing micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or death.

Black Chokeberry and Bee Pollen for Athletes

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Microplastics Linked to Heart Disease

A study led by Harvard University and published in Cell Host & Microbe found that more than a decade after the removal of a precancerous mass known as an adenoma from the colon, changes in the gut microbiome and certain metabolites persist, potentially contributing to an elevated risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The study also found that a poor diet and limited physical activity are more closely associated with the abundance of these CRC-related gut microbes in people with a history of adenoma compared to adenoma-free individuals, suggesting that lifestyle choices play an important role in the gut microbiome of this high-risk group.

CRC is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, and the removal of adenomas is one of the most effective prevention procedures. However, people that have undergone this measure still face an elevated risk of developing CRC. The study involved more than 700 participants—half with a history of adenoma and the other half without. Researchers observed that further research is needed to determine whether modifying the gut microbiome through diet and exercise reduces the risk of CRC. 10

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Global Briefs What started as a classroom assignment on the application of information theory by Assistant Professor Congyu Wu, of Binghamton University, in New York, resulted in the publication of a study in the Northeast Journal of Complex Systems. Wordle, a puzzle game featured in The New York Times, presents players with the challenge of deciphering a five-letter word within six tries. As players make guesses, the game provides feedback by identifying whether any of the guessed letters are correct and whether those letters occupy the correct positions within the hidden word. Conventional approaches solve the game about 90 percent of the time.

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In contrast, the Binghamton team used Shannon entropy, a mathematical concept that measures uncertainty, to prioritize information gathering over direct pursuit of the solution. The objective shifts from achieving a probability of being right to maximizing the expected reduction in uncertainty. The team created a program that recommended the next word most likely to yield the most useful information for solving Wordle, resulting in a reduction in the number of guesses and a success rate of 99 percent.

Global Action Needed To Face Deadly Heatwave Crisis

Heatwaves are the most lethal extreme weather events, causing approximately 498,000 deaths annually. Nearly half of these fatalities occur in Asia, while 36 percent are attributed to Europe. Researchers estimate that when the daily average temperature surpasses 95° F, the mortality rate increases by four deaths per 1 million people. A new report from the Climate Impact Lab predicts that by 2050, 10 times more individuals will succumb to heat-related events in lower-income countries compared to higher-income countries. This disparity arises from the limited resources available to low-income nations to effectively confront rising temperatures. Across the Sahel, situated south of the Sahara Desert in Africa, heat-related deaths are projected to escalate by more than 60 deaths per 100,000 people, surpassing the current mortality rate attributed to malaria in Africa. Pakistan is anticipated to experience an increase of 51 deaths per 100,000 people, comparable to the country’s current mortality rate associated with strokes. The researchers recommend that countries and communities make investments in climate adaptation measures.

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Using Math To Solve Wordle

Ancient DNA Reveals Koalas’ Path to Survival

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A study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution revealed that koala faced a near-extinction event approximately 100,000 years ago, long before humans migrated to Australia. Using genomic analysis, researchers counted the number and rate of gene mutations within four parent-offspring trios and applied this mutation rate to 457 koala genomes. This analysis enabled scientists to trace the expansion and contraction of the koala population over thousands of years. They concluded that contemporary koalas in Eastern Australia are all descended from a single population that survived the intense glacial conditions of the late Pleistocene age. The results of the research will help scientists analyze current population changes and improve conservation strategies. Koalas are listed as endangered in Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Make sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

September 2026

Eco Tip

by Natural Awakenings staff

aundry is a routine part of daily life, so even small changes in how we wash and dry clothes can significantly impact environmental and household health. From energy use to water consumption and chemical exposure, each load offers an opportunity to make mindful choices. Here are practical ways to reduce our laundry footprint without adding complexity. By adjusting temperature settings, choosing cleaner products and rethinking our washing and drying methods, we can support sustainability and long-term wellness. Avoid high heat. Washing machines use about 90 percent of their energy to heat water. Hot water can damage fabrics, and many garment labels recommend cold water to prevent fading, shrinking or bleeding colors. Switching to cold water extends the life of our clothes and reduces energy use without compromising cleanliness. Modern laundry detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water. Tumble drying clothes in high heat breaks down fabric elasticity, often causing them to stretch or shrink dramatically. It also weakens fibers with every cycle, making them more prone to ripping and tearing. Opt for lower heat settings instead. To ensure efficient drying, clean the lint trap before starting a dry cycle. Replace chemical-laden dryer sheets with wool or rubber dryer balls, which reduce static and help separate clothes, improving airflow and allowing for faster drying. Another trick is to add a clean, dry towel to absorb moisture and reduce drying time. 12

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Air drying clothes saves energy and money. Household dryers in the U.S. account for about 3 percent of the residential energy budget. Hanging clothes outside is free and environmentally friendly, leaving garments crease-free and smelling fresh. Sunlight also naturally disinfects and freshens fabrics. Hanging clothes indoors on drying racks is free, too, while protecting fabrics from the elements. Choose eco-friendly detergents. Look for plant-based, biodegradable formulas. Avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. The most serious offenders are ethoxylated ingredients linked to cancer; harmful surfactants or lathering agents like sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate that cause irritation and harm aquatic life;

Practice smarter laundry habits. To save water, energy and money, launder clothes less often and wash fuller loads. Over-washing prematurely deteriorates garments, breaking down fibers and causing colors to fade. According to Levi’s, jeans should be washed sparingly—ideally, every 10 wears or less. Keep denim fresh between washes by airing it out and spot cleaning when necessary. Use eco-friendly mesh laundry bags to protect delicates. Minimize the release of microplastics. Laundry is one of the largest sources of microplastic pollution, threatening land-based ecosystems and waterways. Microfibers from synthetic fabrics are major offenders. To reduce microfiber shedding from the laundry, wash less often using fuller loads, use cold water and less detergent, and hang garments to air dry. Some products, such as the Guppyfriend Washing Bag, help filter out microplastics.

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Clean Clothes, Cleaner Planet

and undisclosed or ambiguous ingredients like “fragrance” or “preservatives”. Consider concentrated or refillable options to minimize plastic packaging. Some brands to consider are Molly’s Suds, Branch Basics and Blueland.

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Midlands Matters

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT Let’s Have a Conversation…

Ryan Vaughn

A Movement for Healthier Families, a Healthier Midlands and a Healthier Future

ave you ever looked at your life and realized that one unexpected moment changed everything? I have. For me, that moment did not happen while I was caring for a patient. It happened when I became one. For more than 20 years, I had the privilege of serving as a physician assistant. I spent my days helping people understand diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, kidney disease and many of the chronic conditions that affect families across our communities. I loved practicing medicine, and I am still deeply grateful for every physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, nurse, pharmacist, therapist and healthcare professional that dedicates their life to caring for others. Modern medicine has transformed—and continues to transform—countless lives. But despite spending my career helping others recognize disease, I never imagined I would become the patient at a young age. I was in my 30s. I did not feel sick. I was going to work, living my life and doing what I believed were the right things. Then my laboratory results came back. My blood sugar was more than 300 mg/dL. My hemoglobin A1C was 10.6 percent. I remember staring at those numbers in disbelief. How could this happen? I knew the symptoms. I knew the risk factors. I knew my family history. Yet, somehow, I missed it in myself. That day taught me something I have never forgotten: Disease does not always announce its arrival. Sometimes our bodies whisper long before they scream. That experience changed me—not because I lost faith in medicine, but because I gained a deeper appreciation for something medicine cannot do alone. It reminded me that understanding our health is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. That realization became the beginning of a new mission. Not to replace modern medicine. Never. But to help people become active partners in their own health care. Because the best health care is not something that is done to us. It is something we take part in.

That is why I created Original Origins Health & Wellness. And it is why I am so excited to welcome you to Midlands Matters. This is not just another health column. It is a conversation—one that I hope we will have month after month. Some conversations will be encouraging. Some may challenge the way we have always thought about health. Some may even prompt us to make changes. But every conversation will be grounded in one belief: You deserve to understand your health before disease changes your life. Together, we will explore the health truths that are often hidden in plain sight. We will talk about the questions we should be asking, the numbers we should know, the habits that quietly shape our future and the small decisions that, over time, become life changing. Most of all, I hope these conversations remind you that you have more influence over your health than you may realize. Not complete control. None of us has that. But influence. And influence is powerful. Because healthier families do not happen by accident. They happen one conversation, one question, one decision and one day at a time. Before you go, can I leave you with one thought? You do not have to become a healthcare expert. You do not have to change everything overnight. You simply must become curious. Curious enough to ask another question. Curious enough to schedule that wellness visit. Curious enough to know your numbers. Curious enough to listen when your body is trying to tell you something. That curiosity may be one of the greatest investments you will ever make—not only for yourself, but for the people that love you. Thank you for spending a few moments with me today. Healthier families are built one conversation at a time, and I am grateful you have chosen to begin this journey with me. Until our next conversation… Wishing you peace, love and healing,

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September 2026

Walking Through Yesterday and a full-length porch that elevated its classic Georgian architecture. The home’s most astonishing chapter, however, came in the early 20th century. Needing a new setting, the massive two-story structure was moved to its current location on Mill Street. The relocation was a marvel of local engineering that took three full months, as workers rolled the entire building down the road, inch by inch, on heavy logs.

The Oldest House in Camden by Anna Garrison

estled along Mill Street in Camden, a Georgian-style home stands quietly, carrying the weight of nearly two centuries of American history. Known to locals as the Washington House, the structure is widely considered the oldest residence in Camden—a living artifact that has adapted right along with the town around it. Its story began around 1780, when Colonel John Chesnut, a Revolutionary War veteran who had previously been a British prisoner, constructed the home. Chesnut’s residence quickly became a centerpiece of local society, but its most famous chapter unfolded in May 1791. During his celebrated Southern Tour, President George Washington swept through Camden. To mark the occasion, Chesnut threw open his doors, hosting an elaborate banquet and reception that forever tied the commander in chief ’s name to the property. Yet, surviving more than 240 years requires a fair amount of resilience. Originally sitting at the intersection of King and Fair Streets, the house faced a devastating fire around 1830. Rather than tear it down, workers rebuilt and expanded the home, adding grand columns 14

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Throughout the decades, the house adapted to meet the town’s changing needs. In the early 1900s, it operated as a popular lodging spot for winter visitors from the North drawn to Camden’s mild climate and vibrant social calendar. Decades later, during the dark days of World War II, the property served a higher civic purpose, providing housing for flight instructors from the nearby Southern Aviation School as they trained young pilots for the U.S. Army Air Corps. Today, the Washington House remains a cornerstone of Camden’s historical identity. From hosting Founding Fathers and surviving house fires to literally rolling down the street to a new home, its walls hold the quiet memories of a town’s evolution, offering a rare, tangible link to the very beginnings of the nation. Anna Garrison is a heritage photographer, author and storyteller based in Columbia. She is passionate about keeping history and human experiences alive through documenting the quiet details of historic structures, preserving forgotten architecture or sharing stories that connect us. Garrison is the founder of Her Story, Her Voice, a literary showcase that connects local women authors with the community to share their writing and their creative journeys, and is deeply committed to celebrating both the physical and human history around us. To connect with her, email Anna@AnnaGarrison.com or follow @walking_through_yesterday and @herstory_hervoicesc on Instagram.

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Local Buzz three slow breaths, stretch their arms and shoulders, take a drink of water or notice five things they can see in the room. Movement can also be helpful. A brief stretch, standing break or classroom movement activity can give students an opportunity to release some physical tension. Teachers are often expected to move from one responsibility to the next without much time to decompress. If you have five minutes between classes, resist the urge to fill every second with another task. Step outside if possible. Take a few deep breaths. Drink some water. Stretch. Look out a window. Sit quietly for a moment.

A Calmer Classroom Starts With You

Simple Ways for Teachers to Manage Stress and Help Students Reset by Michaela Leung

he start of a new school year brings fresh energy, new routines and plenty of excitement—but for teachers, it can also bring a significant amount of stress. While it may not be possible to eliminate classroom stress, teachers can build small moments of regulation into the school day. One of the simplest ways to manage stress in the classroom is to notice what is happening in your own body. When you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, take a slow breath and consciously relax your shoulders, unclench your jaw and plant both feet on the floor. These small resets can be incorporated throughout the day—before students arrive, between classes, after a difficult interaction or before responding to challenging behavior. Students often respond well to consistency, especially when they know what to expect. Consider building short transition rituals into the school day. This could mean beginning class with one minute of quiet breathing, playing soft music while students settle in, doing a quick stretch or simply taking a few quiet moments before instruction begins. The goal isn’t to turn the classroom into a meditation studio. It’s to give students a predictable signal that it’s time to transition from one activity or emotional state to another. When a student is upset, restless or overwhelmed, asking them to immediately “pay attention” may not be enough. Sometimes the first step is helping them feel calm enough to engage. Teachers can encourage simple grounding techniques, such as asking students to take Make sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

Teachers don’t necessarily stop thinking about school when the final bell rings. Creating a small ritual to mark the end of the workday can help signal to your brain that it’s time to shift into personal time. Before leaving, write down anything you need to remember for the following day. Take a few minutes to tidy your workspace. Then, when possible, physically step away from the classroom and allow the day to be finished. A short walk, a favorite playlist during the commute or a few minutes of quiet at home can also become part of that transition. When teachers care for their own nervous systems, they model an important lesson for their students: Taking a breath, slowing down and starting again are all valuable skills. And sometimes, the most powerful thing a teacher can give a classroom isn’t another lesson plan or activity. It’s the example of what it looks like to pause, regulate and begin again. Michaela Leung is a multimedia storyteller, wellness writer and Pilates instructor based in Columbia. She is passionate about making holistic wellness more accessible—through movement, mindful living or sharing stories that inspire. Leung is the founder of All is Well, a wellness platform and newsletter, and a former Columbia ambassador who is still dedicated to supporting local businesses and healthy living. To connect with her, email MichaelaAngeliqueLeung@gmail.com or follow @ michaelaleung__ on Instagram. September 2026

Cover Story A Mother’s Legacy

Clemons’ mother, Dianne, died from a stroke at just 42 years old. The loss was devastating, but over time grief began to ask something of her daughter: What if another woman could have more time? What if families had greater knowledge about their health? What if food, wellness and community could help change someone’s story?

Roni Nicole

Those questions became even more personal after Clemons survived three life-threatening surgeries of her own. Her body became one of her greatest teachers. She began looking beyond simply treating illness and exploring nutrition, movement, meditation, self-care and the relationship between what we eat and how we live.

A 25-Year Journey of Healing, Purpose and Legacy The Soil, Soul and Southern Strength of Bonita Dianne Clemons by Tiana Tarver

here is something unmistakably Southern about Bonita Dianne Clemons. It is in the warmth of her smile, the wide-brimmed hats, the easy laughter and the way a conversation can move effortlessly from collard greens to holistic health, Black history, farming and the importance of knowing where your food comes from. Beneath that Southern grace is a woman whose life has been shaped by loss, survival, healing and an unwavering belief in the power of community. For 25 years, Clemons has been planting seeds—sometimes literally, sometimes in the lives of women, families and farmers across South Carolina. And it all began with a woman named Dianne. 16

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Eventually, she developed S.P.I.C.E. Nutrition, a whole-person approach rooted in the understanding that physical health cannot be separated from emotional, cultural, intellectual and spiritual well-being. For Clemons, wellness was never simply about eating better. It was about living differently. In 2001, she turned that belief—and the love she carried for her mother—into Dianne’s Call. What began as a grassroots effort grew into a long-running commitment to connecting families with fresh food, health education and community resources. Yet Clemons never wanted the work to stop with handing someone a bag of vegetables. She wanted people to know how to grow them. That distinction has shaped nearly everything that followed.

Returning to the Soil

In 2016, Clemons founded FarmaSis with a bold vision of reconnecting Black women with agriculture, wellness and one another. Its foundation is simple: Collaborate. Cultivate. Create. But those words reach far beyond farming. Women cultivate vegetables, but they also cultivate confidence. They collaborate in gardens and fields, but they also rebuild sisterhood. They grow food while creating new possibilities for health, entrepreneurship and independence.

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don’t just see programs. I see women. I see meals shared around tables. I see women walking through nature. I see hands in soil. I see farmers. I see children tasting fresh vegetables. I see sisters laughing. I see healing. And I see my mother,” Clemons reflects.

Roni Nicole

Perhaps that is the clearest explanation of Clemons’ legacy. The pain of losing her mother became a call to help other women live. Her own health challenges became an invitation to understand the body differently. A garden became a classroom. Food became a pathway to health. Agriculture became a vehicle for economic opportunity.

And they do not have to leave their femininity at the garden gate. There can be dirt beneath the fingernails and earrings beneath the straw hat. There can be hard work followed by laughter. Strength and softness can occupy the same space. Agriculture carries a complicated history for many Black Americans—a history that includes exploitation and land loss, but also extraordinary stories of knowledge, stewardship, ownership and survival. FarmaSis offers women another way to approach the soil: not because we have to work this land, but because this land can help us heal; not because someone else controls our food, but because we can grow something for ourselves.

From the Garden to the Bigger Table Over the years, Clemons’ work expanded from community wellness into the larger systems that determine whether farmers and communities thrive. Through Bonita Global LLC, she has worked in agricultural consulting, farmer development, food aggregation, technical assistance and market access, particularly with historically underserved producers.

Her work has helped move substantial resources directly into farmers’ hands while helping locally grown food reach underserved communities. She has also helped producers understand and navigate USDA programs and opportunities that can often feel complicated or out of reach.

It is here that one of Clemons’ greatest strengths becomes clear: She knows how to move between worlds. She can sit with a woman growing her first tomato, listen to a farmer wondering whether there will be a buyer for next season’s crop, talk with a family trying to put healthier food on the table, and sit at a table with agricultural leaders discussing policy, funding, logistics and market access. Her work has earned recognition, including being named the 2023 South Carolina Woman Farmer of the Year and receiving formal recognition from the South Carolina House of Representatives in 2024. Yet spend time with Clemons and the accomplishments quickly give way to stories about people— the farmers, the women, the children tasting something freshly grown, the meals shared around tables and, always, her mother.

Two Legacies. One Harvest.

This year marks a rare intersection in Clemons’ journey: 25 years of Dianne’s Call and 10 years of FarmaSis. “When I look back, I

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Sometimes healing looks like sunlight. Sometimes it looks like a fresh tomato. Sometimes it is women laughing together in a field. And sometimes it is simply remembering that we still have the power to nourish ourselves and one another.

Twenty-Five Years Later, the Call Continues

On Saturday, September 26, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Lebbs Farm, in Gilbert, the community will gather to celebrate 25 years of Dianne’s Call and 10 years of FarmaSis. But Clemons does not envision a formal anniversary banquet. She wants it to feel like coming home. Come experience the land. Celebrate the women. Honor the farmers. Eat good food. Laugh. Breathe. Reconnect. Even if you have never been part of Dianne’s Call or FarmaSis, there is still a place for you. Because this celebration is not simply about where the journey has been. It is about what will be planted next. Twenty-five years later, Clemons is still collaborating. Still cultivating. Still creating. Still answering Dianne’s call. What began as one daughter’s response to loss has become a legacy of helping others choose health, reclaim the soil and remember the power already in their own hands. Bonita Dianne Clemons, MPH, is the founder of Dianne’s Call and FarmaSis, an agricultural systems consultant, wellness educator, and advocate for food access and community health. Her work is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: Food is medicine, and healthy communities begin when people have the knowledge, resources and power to nourish themselves. For more information, visit DiannesCall.org or TheFarmaSis.com. September 2026

Green Living

Home Energy Resilience

electricity derived from utility power or solar panels and kicks in during a grid outage to power essential appliances such as the refrigerator, well pump, internet router, lighting, air conditioning and security systems. When paired with solar, the system can provide indefinite backup power, assuming solar is available to recharge the battery.

Smarter Ways To Prepare for Outages and Rising Costs by Zak Logan

aving backup options in place for unexpected power outages, severe weather events and grid vulnerabilities ensures that life can go on during emergencies without relying on fossil fuel-based systems. According to Environment America, approximately 5 million U.S. households are powered by solar energy and more than 295,000 Americans rely on backup battery systems that store solar energy from their rooftops for use during power outages. As storms, grid strain, rising utility costs and unpredictable outages become more common, many homeowners are rethinking what energy security means to them. Even those that are not ready to fully

commit to rooftop systems are looking for more sustainable and safer options than gasoline-powered generators. An emerging market includes battery-powered home backup systems, as well as portable, solar-powered generators that can keep essentials like refrigerators, medical devices, lights and internet routers running. These smarter strategies are transforming the idea of preparedness into independence.

Home Integrated Systems

According to Marriele Mango, senior project director at the national nonprofit Clean Energy Group, a whole-home battery solution such as a Tesla Powerwall can back up an entire home for hours or longer. It stores

“We’re finding that battery storage systems have a useful life well beyond the typical 10-year warranty, with newer models able to charge and discharge much more frequently than older models,” Mango explains. “The shift from nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is not only more affordable, but also has a longer useful life. It is also a safer chemistry, as it is more resistant to overheating. Where available, a battery can actually generate income for a homeowner during clear sky days, unlike a gas generator, which solely exists to provide backup power.” “Battery technology has advanced significantly,” says Lesley McCain, executive director of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association. “Today’s systems store more electricity, take up less space and can last well over a decade with normal use. Many are managed through smartphone apps that let homeowners monitor energy production, battery levels and household usage in real time.”

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Portable Solutions

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Portable power stations are different from generators in several ways. They do not use combustion engines to create power, so they are completely silent and produce zero harmful emissions. These compact, rechargeable battery units provide electricity on demand and on the go, making them ideal for both outdoor and indoor use such as camping, tailgating, off-grid living or emergency home backup during outages. Because they are standalone plug-and-play systems, rather than permanent home infrastructure, they do not need county permits, inspections or utility agreements.

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Different sizes and capacities are available. Smaller portable units can power smartphones, tablets and LED lights. Mid-sized stations are best for laptops, mini refrigerators, fans, internet routers and small medical devices. Larger units, designed for home backup, RV trips or longer off-grid use, are ideal for powering TVs, small kitchen appliances such as coffeemakers and blenders, or even power tools. “Some permissionless plug-in batteries can be charged by smaller solar arrays, even just one or two panels, rather than an entire rooftop,” Mango points out. “Pairing a plug-in battery with even a small solar array could greatly extend the duration of backup power available.”

Getting Started

McCain advises homeowners to understand their average electricity usage, how much backup power they actually need and whether their roof is suitable for solar before purchasing a solar and battery system. Her best tip is to obtain multiple quotes from certified installers and ask for a comprehensive, easy-to-understand estimate of energy production, expected savings, warranty coverage and how the battery will perform during an outage.

“Here in Illinois, many residents begin by subscribing to a community solar program, which allows them to receive credits on their electric bill from a nearby solar farm without installing panels on their home,” McCain suggests. “When they’re ready, they can explore adding rooftop solar and battery storage,” she explains. Mango notes, “Subscription community solar models help with reducing utility bills without the need to invest in an individual solar-plus-storage system. However, that also means there are no household resilience benefits. In other words, community solar won’t keep your lights on in the event of an outage.” For renters, portable solar panels like the Renogy 200-watt foldable solar panel are an entry-level apartment backup. In addition, renters may be able to sign up for a community solar program or a community choice aggregation program that allows local governments to procure greener power from an alternative supplier on behalf of their residents. Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic health and getting back to basics.

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September 2026

These therapies are practiced either by themselves or alongside complementary wellness modalities such as meditation, breathwork, massage and yoga, helping practitioners quiet mental overstimulation and encourage deeper states of rest and presence.

Healing Ways

Healing Harmonies

According to a 2025 article from the University of California, Los Angeles, “Research on the benefits of sound therapy is inconclusive, but growing.” There are a number of studies that seek to determine which sound frequencies are most effective, how much sound therapy is needed to gain benefits and which individuals are the best candidates for this treatment.

How Sound Therapy Supports Modern Wellness by Zak Logan

s stress, anxiety, burnout and sleep struggles rise, many people are searching for wellness approaches that feel calming, accessible and noninvasive. According to Metatech Insights, the sound therapy market is expected to grow 9.5 percent over the next decade. A number of these types of sessions are rapidly moving from niche wellness spaces into mainstream health culture, supporting relaxation, nervous system regulation, mindfulness and emotional balance through vibration, rhythm and tone. The sound healing field includes vibroacoustic therapy, which employs specialized tables and chairs to gently send sound waves through the body. Sound baths are deeply immersive, meditative sessions involving Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, chimes, gongs and tuning forks, as well as sessions with percussive instruments like hand drums, rattles and melodic tongue drums. Other instruments like the didgeridoo and vocal toning—using the human voice—are also effective for some in turning off the chronic flight-fight-or-freeze stress response. A modality known as binaural beats uses stereo headphones to provide two different sound frequencies, one in each ear. As these two tones are processed by the brain, they align to create a perceived third frequency, which is believed to promote relaxation, focus or sleep.

A 2016 observational study in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine reported that singing bowl meditations increased feelings of relaxation and spiritual well-being while significantly reducing stress, depression, anxiety and anger. The researchers also found significant reductions in physical pain and tension among 40- to 50-year-olds. Because of its positive impact on the central nervous system, sound healing therapy is being used in addiction recovery and post-traumatic stress disorder, reducing relapse triggers and hyperarousal. By boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in response to certain frequencies, participants find it easier to feel, express and release suppressed emotions.

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Energy Affects Energy

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“Sound therapy is the intentional use of sound, vibration and frequency to support relaxation, self-awareness and the overall well-being of body, mind and soul,” explains sound therapist Anthony Profeta, in Vero Beach, Florida, who offers sound bath sessions to private clients and also serves as part of an integrative medical team at the Cleveland Clinic. “Physicians use sound waves therapeutically in procedures like lithotripsy to break up kidney or gallbladder stones. Many healing traditions believe that a sound bath operates on the same fundamental principle, working with subtler forms of stuck energy held in the meridians,

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Tips for Beginning

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Based on experience, Profeta underscores, “Too great a variety of instruments can actually reduce the therapeutic effect.” We all experience sound differently, he explains. Some feel deeply relaxed, while others notice physical sensations, vivid imagery, vibrant colors, emotional release or a sense of timelessness.

nadis [in traditional Indian medicine] and other energy centers of the body.” Profeta adds that this physical contact with sound stimulates the vagus nerve—the longest nerve in the body and primary regulator of the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows respiration, decreases heart rate and increases heart rate variability, shifting the body out of stress and into genuine relaxation. Guy Yair Beider, a New York City-based sound healing practitioner, educator and founder of Sound Medicine Academy, emphasizes the zero-effort component of the modality. “In a wellness culture that has, ironically, become exhausting in its own right—with protocols, optimization and self-improvement that starts to feel like another job—sound healing offers something genuinely rare: permission to do nothing and still receive something real.”

Beider believes that the effects of a sound bath or other types of sound therapy can be profound because they cut through our constant mental chatter. “Many of us are extremely skilled at thinking about our feelings without ever actually feeling them. Because sound healing offers nothing to analyze, that loop gets interrupted and whatever has been held beneath the surface often finds room to move,” he points out, encouraging participants to move slowly after a session, drink water and give themselves a few minutes before re-entering the pace of the day. For those new to sound therapy, Profeta recommends a low commitment, 30- to 60-minute sound bath as an introduction, asserting, “Longer is not necessarily better. After about 45 minutes, especially when participants are lying on a thin yoga mat on a hard floor, restlessness tends to increase and those positive effects begin to reverse. The quality of the sound experience matters more than duration,” he says. “Approach sound with curiosity rather than expectation. Sometimes the deepest benefit arrives very quietly: for a few moments, you become still enough to hear yourself again.” Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic healing and getting back to basics.

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September 2026

Feature Story

Introduction to Somatic Therapies Reconnecting Mind and Body in an Overstimulated World by Sheldon C. Baker

e are often told to “just breathe” when we feel distressed, overreactive, overstimulated, hyper-vigilant, exhausted or digitally overloaded. Stress is a common consequence of modern life, and sometimes, a few deep breaths can provide relief. However, when stress becomes ever-present and deep-seated, we may need a bit more help to release the tension in our muscles and to lower our heightened blood pressure out of fight-flight-or-freeze mode. Somatic healing practices can provide a reset through movement and body awareness. According to Gina Nick, Ph.D., a naturopathic physician with 25 years of experience and an integrative medical practice in Los Angeles, “Somatic therapies are designed to address physical tension and release the stored emotions and stressors housed in the body.” These practices—which can be performed at home or with the help of a professional—forge a healthy, fluent connection between the mind and body by creating heightened self-awareness and boosting recovery and resilience. The result is sustained calmness and an improved ability to achieve serenity, focus and cognitive clarity.

Noticing the Body’s Messages

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“Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your thoughts. It changes your biology,” explains Daniel Amen, M.D., a double board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist and author of multiple national bestsellers, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Pain: Breaking the Doom

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Loop to Heal Chronic Physical and Emotional Pain. “When stress hormones stay elevated for too long, they increase muscle tension, fire up inflammation and contribute to chronic pain. They also disrupt sleep, impair digestion and can even reduce blood flow to the brain, making you feel anxious, exhausted or mentally foggy.” Somatic therapy relies on interoception— awareness of body sensations—to identify and release stress and trauma. These sensations originate from the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Examples of negative body sensations include clenching muscles, racing pulse, stomach churning, temperature fluctuations, tightness around the chest and tingling. Steven Bradshaw, a psychologist, somatic experiencing practitioner and founder of Beyond Psychology Center, in Los Angeles, explains that the autonomic nervous system features two sub-systems that regulate safety: the sympathetic nervous system that mobilizes the body for action in dangerous situations and the parasympathetic nervous system to promote calmness and recovery. Chronic stress or trauma can get stuck in the sympathetic nervous system, causing a state of constant alertness. “The body is safety for the mind,” he remarks. “I use a mind-body approach that engages your inner healer to move from states of anxiety, burnout, disconnection and pain into states of goodness, flow and a deep sense of belonging in your own body.”

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Three-Month Planner

Aimie Apigian, M.D., MS, MPH, founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated and author of The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It explains, “Somatic therapies are bodybased approaches that work at the level of sensation. Sometimes that means creating a sensation of safety in the body, and sometimes it means creating the sensation of overcoming a moment of powerlessness from the past, often through movement, by finally doing the self-defense movement you were not able to do when the real event happened. The benefit is that we uncouple a sensation from the meaning of danger it got paired with. That can be an internal sensation, like the twisting of your gut, or an external one, like a particular sight or smell. The sensation stops automatically signaling danger, and the body gets to learn a new response rather than only understanding the old one.”

Mind-Body Practices

“As anyone who has ever danced knows, our feelings can be more readily accessed through movement and getting in touch with our body’s sensations, which is what somatic therapy does,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., a board-certified internist specializing in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sleep and pain, as well as the author of several books, including Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps: Eliminating the Root Causes of Chronic Pain. While conventional talk therapy focuses on using the rational mind to release embedded stress, daily body-awareness activities can help people learn to process their tension while building emotional resilience.

Amen recommends starting with basic practices, including slow diaphragmatic breathing, daily body movements, good quality sleep and time spent in nature. One of his favorite calming strategies is the butterfly hug to soothe the brain and body. “Simply place your hands on your opposite shoulders and gently stroke them downward,” he explains.

How Healing Works October

Other self-somatic therapies can calm the body and mind, creating a sense of safety, which quiets racing thoughts and brightens the person’s outlook. “The aim of a daily practice is to create a sensation of internal safety or a felt sense of support in the body,” Apigian counsels. Four-Count Breath: An excellent tension reliever and mental refresh, the four-count breath can be performed anywhere at any time. Inhale fully while counting to four, hold for four, exhale for four and pause for four. Repeat up to five times. Body Scan: This exercise is all about interoception and is done by noticing sensations from head to toe while sitting or lying down comfortably. Full-Body Shake: Standing up and shaking arms, legs and shoulders for 30 seconds not only loosen limbs but also relieves pent-up stress. Rolling the head in a circular motion can also release knotted tension at the base of the neck.

Rooted in Gratitude November

Living Generously December

Humming: The vibrations from humming (either a tune or single note like an “Om”) physically calms the vagus nerve, which bidirectionally carries information

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September 2026

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Feature Story

via electrical and chemical messages to and from the brain. A 2023 study published in the medical journal Cureus involving 23 participants revealed that humming significantly lowered stress biomarkers compared to physical activity and sleep, with positive impacts on the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce the fight-or-flight response. Mindful Movement: Moving with intention and body awareness can deepen in-the-moment joy and appreciation while also reducing anxiety, releasing tension and improving mood. Start with deep breathing, then turn attention inward for a head-to-toe body check while moving. This can be practiced while washing the dishes or participating in a fitness class. Guided Imagery: A technique that can be performed alone or with a therapist, guided imagery utilizes breathwork and meditation while envisioning an object or scene, using all of the senses. Capitalizing on the mind-body connection, multi-sensory visualization reduces stress and relaxes muscles.

Guided Therapies

Long-term, somatic therapies with the help of expert practitioners can result in creating healthier habitual emotional patterns, which contribute to repairing mood imbalance and creating sustained well-being. Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases physical tension to enhance relaxation. It focuses on the skull, spine and craniosacral system, which includes the cerebrospinal fluid, fascia and soft tissues surrounding the central nervous system. A 2023 study published in Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland) involving male firefighter cadets found that five weekly sessions of craniosacral therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone. Rolfing somatic movement is a touch-based technique designed to unblock or release protective posture patterns such as shrugged shoulders, bent postures and clenched jawlines from unresolved 24

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stress, anxiety and trauma. According to the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute, Rolfing resets the body’s stress response by releasing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue network that surrounds, separates and holds together the body’s muscles, bones, organs, blood vessels and nerve fibers. Trauma-sensitive yoga or trauma-informed yoga is designed to cultivate a compassionate awareness of what is happening in the body in the present moment and to develop the ability to take effective action based on that knowledge. It empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental environment and regulate the nervous system. A 2018 qualitative analysis published in International Journal of Stress Management identified key emotional themes that emerged from engaging in trauma-sensitive yoga, including gratitude, compassion, relatedness, acceptance, centeredness and empowerment. Somatic experiencing is a specialized therapy designed to retrain the nervous system by processing trauma in small, manageable sessions. Instead of focusing on the story of the trauma, the therapist guides the client to notice physical sensations, while providing a feeling of safety and well-being. This treatment approach releases vestigial negativity and creates a new, intuitive, more deeply self-aware and empowered way of sustaining emotional well-being. A 2021 literature review published in European Journal of Psychotraumatology reported that somatic experiencing positively impacts symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, notably reducing affective and somatic complaints while improving overall well-being.

Eye-Movement Therapies

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) centers on moving the eyes in a specific manner while being guided to process traumatic or stressful memories, which are stored differently than normal or happy ones. Reprocessing helps to repair mind injury caused by the traumatic event. Brainspotting (BSP), a newer neuro-based therapy, uses eye position or “brainspots” to access and release unresolved emotional energy stored in the limbic system and subcortical region of the brain. Compared to EMDR, BSP is more somatic and intuitive. In a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, just one 40-minute session of EMDR or BSP was found to have beneficial effects in processing distressing memories.

Finding Relief and Resolution

“Somatic therapies recognize that many emotional and physical symptoms are protective responses rather than a mental disorder, weakness or failure,” says Annie Wright, a licensed psychotherapist and relational trauma specialist. Acknowledging and observing our discomfort paves the way for a healing conversation with ourselves. Sheldon C. Baker is a contributing editor to numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications.

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September 2026

Homeopathy

Homeopathy Under the Microscope An Evidence-Based Look at a Controversial Therapy by Athena Eamon

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Reviewed by Lauri Grossman, DC, CCH, RSHom(NA)

o evaluate evidence-based research for a health treatment, it is important to comprehend the research methodology, study design, included and excluded evidence, and the potential existence of bias in the study’s design, execution or funding. This understanding is essential before drawing any conclusions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of medical treatments with minimal bias and determining if an intervention surpasses placebo effects. However, individualized homeopathy poses unique methodological challenges that differ 26

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from testing a standardized pharmaceutical drug. Unlike conventional RCT drug trials, where all participants with the same diagnosis typically receive the same medication and dose and are evaluated uniformly over specified time periods, classical homeopathy is tailored to the individual patient rather than the disease diagnosis. Two patients with migraines, seasonal allergies or arthritis may receive different remedies based on their physical symptoms, emotional state, sleep patterns, food cravings, environmental sensitivities, personality traits and constitution. As a result, researchers designing

and conducting homeopathy trials face the following challenges that hinder the use of testing models developed for single pharmaceutical compounds: • Participants with the same diagnosis often receive different remedies, making it difficult to standardize interventions across a trial. • Homeopaths frequently adjust remedies as symptoms evolve, whereas conventional RCTs require treatments to remain fixed throughout the study. • Homeopathic care includes lengthy consultations, individualized assessments,

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follow-up visits and therapeutic relationships that may independently contribute to outcomes beyond the remedy itself.

conditions and post-surgical recovery, but the certainty of evidence remains low to moderate due to study limitations.

• Patients may seek improvements in well-being, energy, resilience or quality of life in addition to symptom relief, yet clinical trials measure only disease-specific endpoints.

The Scientific Debate Extends Beyond Clinical Trials

What Clinical Studies Demonstrate

Many studies on homeopathy exist, but their quality differs greatly. Some treatments, such as Arnica montana for pain management, show more promising evidence than others. Systematic reviews, which are toptier research tools that compile, evaluate and synthesize empirical studies, find the evidence on homeopathy inconclusive due to issues like small sample sizes, inconsistent study designs, varying prescribing methods, difficulty blinding individualized treatments, publication bias and poor methodologies. These limitations prevent the determination of whether benefits are due to specific homeopathic effects, nonspecific therapeutic effects, placebo responses or a combination of all three.

Some Reviews Reach Divergent Conclusions

Systematic reviews can reach different conclusions due to varying inclusion criteria. One review might include all studies regardless of quality, while another might focus only on larger trials or low-riskof-bias studies. These design differences affect the conclusions. For example, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council found no reliable evidence supporting homeopathy for any health condition after analyzing only studies with strict methodological criteria. By contrast, a meta-analysis conducted by the University of Bern in Germany specifically focused on individualized homeopathy. The analysis concluded that statistically significant effects may exist for treating conditions such as childhood diarrhea, respiratory

Perhaps the greatest controversy about homeopathy pertains to its mechanism rather than its clinical outcomes. Many homeopathic medicines are diluted beyond Avogadro’s limit, leaving no measurable molecules of the original substance. Conventional chemistry and pharmacology struggle to explain how these highly diluted remedies could produce biological effects. Homeopathy researchers argue that these findings, along with advances in understanding complex biological systems, justify further investigation into mechanisms involving nanostructures, water organization, electromagnetic signaling and other physical processes that are not yet fully understood.

A Growing Consensus for More Research Arises

Scientists on both sides of the homeopathy debate agree that future research must combine the methodological rigor of randomized trials with study designs that more accurately reflect clinical practice. This requires larger sample sizes, transparent

reporting, standardized outcome measures, longer follow-up periods and independent replication across multiple research centers. Additionally, homeopathy study designs should better align the research methodology with the intervention being studied without sacrificing scientific rigor. The goal is to maintain the standard for evidence while formulating research questions that accurately represent the personalized nature of homeopathy practice. This approach will yield clearer insights into where homeopathy offers meaningful benefits, where it falls short and how it can best contribute to evidence-informed, patient-centered integrative healthcare. Athena Eamon is a researcher and parent with nearly two decades of experience studying and using homeopathy, integrative health and whole-person wellness. Dr. Lauri Grossman has more than 30 years of experience as an integrative care expert, chiropractor, classical homeopath and global educator. Underwritten by Grato Health, in operation since 1987, dedicated to advancing health and wellness through natural, holistic solutions that support the body’s ability to heal.

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A vibrant weekend of talks, socializing and delicious food SPEAKERS: Josh and Adam Bigelsen, Del Bigtree, Natasha Campbell-McBride, Laura Delano, Ben Edwards, Catherine Austin Fitts, Chris Knobbe, Joseph Ladapo, Thomas Massie, Sally Fallon Morell, Thaddeus Owen, Toby Rogers, Joel Salatin and many others! Volunteer Opportunities • Children’s Program • Saturday Night Banquet Special Rates for 13-20 Year Olds • Continuing Education Units • Farm Tour

3 Days with 5 Meals: $500 wisetraditions.org (703) 820-3333 $50 off registration Sept 1-18. Use code: NA

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September 2026

Fit Body

Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility Simple Poses for Real-Life Strength and Stability by Marlaina Donato

oga is often regarded as a practice reserved for the ultra-flexible, deeply spiritual or highly athletic—but at its core, it can simply be a practical tool for helping the body move and feel better. Individuals with compromised mobility can greatly benefit from intentional movements that incorporate stretching, balance and breath awareness. Rather than focusing on achieving perfect poses or extreme flexibility, functional yoga emphasizes sustainable movement patterns that improve joint health, posture, stability and body awareness.

most powerful things a person can do to stay functional and pain-free at any age. It gives us a daily opportunity to counter all the sitting, screen time and repetitive patterns that compress the body over time. The body is remarkably intelligent. Yoga helps us get out of its way and meets you where you are.”

Yoga-inspired movements can reduce stiffness, support recovery, improve balance and help prevent injury—regardless of age, fitness level or experience. The goal is not performance or perfection; it is about maintaining freedom of movement and helping the body function more comfortably in daily activities such as walking, lifting, reaching, driving, cleaning and gardening.

Noting that non-demanding yoga postures like Tree Pose and Mountain Pose encourage ankle, hip and core stability over time, Senesi points out, “We’re lengthening tissues under load and teaching the body to own the space it’s moving into. As we age, this becomes critical.”

Non-Demanding Postures

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Tim Senesi, a Southern California yoga instructor who offers instructional videos for beginners on his Yoga With Tim YouTube channel, says, “Loss of mobility is one of the primary drivers of injury and physical decline later in life. A consistent yoga practice is one of the

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For beginners, he recommends less intensive types of yoga such as hatha or vinyasa slow flow. “Aim for consistency over intensity, and don’t underestimate short sessions,” he counsels. “Ten to 20 minutes done consistently every day will take you further than a long class once a week. The nervous system learns through repetition, not duration, and short, frequent practice is where real change happens.” Senesi recommends the following poses, adding that notable mobility improvements are possible within two to three weeks of consistent practice: Cat-Cow for spinal mobility and low-back health: On hands and knees, inhale as the belly drops and chest lifts, then exhale as the spine rounds up. Let the breath lead the movement.

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Low Lunge to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting by opening the hip flexors: Step one foot forward, lower the back knee to the floor and breathe. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per side. Reclined Supine Twist to improve rotational mobility: Lying on the back, draw one knee to the chest and guide it across the body. Hold each side at least 60 seconds. Legs Up the Wall for recovery, improved circulation and calming of the nervous system: Sit sideways as close to a wall as possible before lying down and extending the legs vertically against the wall. Rest in this position for five to 10 minutes.

Side Bends: Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and place hands on the hips. Slowly bend the upper body to the right, return to the center and then bend the upper body to the left. Focus on lengthening the spine on each inhale and deepening the stretch on each exhale. Seated Ankle on Thigh: Sit straight up in a chair, lift one ankle and place it on the opposite thigh. Use one hand to gently press down on the knee of the crossed leg to open the hip. Then cup the crossed knee with the opposite hand and draw it across the body toward the opposite shoulder to stretch the gluteus muscle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing normally. Head Twist: Gently and slowly turn the head over each shoulder to release neck tension, keeping eyes level. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

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As a starting point for those with limited mobility, Yanders recommends a gentle or chair yoga class, or even a few private classes for personalized attention. “Most importantly, I support learning to work with how your body is now, not how you think it should be,” she says. Here are a few moves in her arsenal; aim for 10 to 20 repetitions per side:

Living Room Yoga

Tamantha Yanders, a yoga instructor and owner of Living Room Yoga, in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, notes that poor posture is a learned habit, suggesting that rounded shoulders, forward head positions and tight hips can improve with yoga-inspired routines. “Every time you access a joint with movement, you are lubricating the mechanism and supporting mobility,” she notes, adding that even individuals that are not very flexible can benefit from such movements.

How Healing Works Coming in October

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September 2026

Natural Pet

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

mental health through several interconnected pathways, including neural signaling via the vagus nerve, an immune response like inflammation, and the microbial production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The review also notes that anxiety disorders in dogs have been linked to dysbiosis—an imbalance in the gut microbiome, when beneficial microorganisms decrease and harmful ones overgrow.

The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

reactivity, indicating that some anxious behavior is a physiological issue rather than purely behavioral.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection

The vagus nerve directly connects the gut and the brain, carrying signals in both directions. According to a 2024 review article published in Veterinary Medicine International, microbes in the gut can influence canine

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nxious behavior in dogs and cats has traditionally been seen as a training problem or brain chemistry issue, often treated with obedience work, management tools or behavior medication. However, recent veterinary research points to another piece of the puzzle sitting lower in the body: the gut. Emerging science on the gut-brain axis suggests that an inflamed or imbalanced gut can send stress signals that influence mood, focus and

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A 2025 study in Scientific Reports examined gut microbiota composition in companion dogs and found that specific bacterial groups, including Blautia, were consistently associated with higher owner-reported anxiety and aggression scores. Additional research is needed before researchers can conclude whether specific microbial flora actually cause anxiety or if high-stress environments and anxious behaviors physically alter the canine gut environment.

Noticing the Symptoms

Chronic, low-grade gut inflammation in dogs or cats manifests through observable nervous system responses such as pacing, panting, difficulty settling, leash reactivity and fear-based reactions that seem disproportionate to the situation. Trouble focusing during training, especially with digestive upset, is also common. These signs alone do not confirm a gut-related cause but warrant veterinary attention to rule out other conditions. One case, Sadie, a 5-year-old Labrador retriever, had little success with multiple anti-anxiety medications and a behavioral trainer. Her history revealed chronic soft stool and repeated antibiotic courses for suspected colitis, previously unconnected to her behavior. A gut-focused protocol, combined with her existing medication, led to steady improvement over several weeks.

Addressing the Root Causes

Integrative veterinarian Odette Suter, author of What Your Vet Never Told You: Secrets to

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Assembling a Health Team

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For pets on anxiety medication, the gut-mind connection is not a reason to stop it, but rather invites asking additional questions with the veterinary team, such as, “What else can support the body as a whole?” Citing a concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suter states, “That’s what the Chinese call the root and branch approach. The focus is on the root, but also on the branches, which are the symptoms, just to make sure the animal is not too uncomfortable.” Medication may calm the brain’s response, but if the gut remains inflamed, caregivers may be addressing only part of the issue. Gut health and mental health are interconnected for dogs and cats, and treating them separately may explain why some anxious pets never fully settle. A whole-animal view—one that includes the gut—provides the pet and the veterinary team a comprehensive approach. Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

Supporting Peak Health for Your Animal, criticizes symptom-chasing in both conventional and holistic pet care. “There is too much focus on the symptoms and alleviating symptoms, and not so much about asking why, what is going on. We really need to understand the physiology, the pathophysiology and what’s happening when the animals aren’t healthy.”

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Looking at the whole animal and viewing anxiety and digestive upset as interconnected problems allows caregivers to ask a broader question: What is driving both? Suter also notes that fixing the gut is complex, pointing to numerous factors, including hormone balance, which often need attention alongside gut issues.

Improving the Diet

Small, consistent changes at home can support gut balance alongside veterinary care. Moving away from highly processed diets toward fresh, minimally processed food may promote healthier gut flora over time. Targeted probiotic support can help restore microbial diversity, although strain and dose vary by individual and should be discussed with a veterinarian. Digestive enzymes support the breakdown of food, and long-chain, omega-3 fatty acids sourced from fish oil or algae have been shown in a 2007 study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association to regulate inflammatory and immune responses in dogs. Introduce any new supplement gradually and consult the pet’s veterinarian, especially for animals that are already undergoing treatment. Make sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

September 2026

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September 2026

FOOT WELLNESS

Community Resource Guide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, call 839-228-1158 or email MsTracy@MidlandsNA.com.

ACUPUNTURE

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RADIANT POINT ACUPUNCTURE AND WELLNESS

PEACEFUL PAUSE HEALING

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With compassion and a deep clinical understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this practice collaborates with clients to address common concerns such as chronic discomfort, muscular tension, digestive irregularities, and stress-related cranial pressure. Care is grounded in the principles of Chinese Medicine and designed to support the body’s innate self-regulating mechanisms. Rather than focusing solely on isolated symptoms, attention is given to identifying underlying patterns of imbalance—allowing for a more comprehensive approach to restoring harmony, promoting vitality, and optimizing overall function. Through a personalized and holistic framework, clients are supported in achieving balance, resilience and longterm well-being using natural, time-honored methods of care.

CHIROPRACTIC DOWDY RUDOLPH CHIROPRACTIC LLC Dr. Dowdy Rudolph, DC 1444 Barnwell St, Columbia 803-376-6293 • DowdyRudolphChiro.com

Dr. Gerald Rudolph, DC, focuses on finding the root cause of your problems and not just treating your pain. He utilizes digital X-rays to help diagnose problems, spinal adjustments to stimulate proper movement of spinal and extremity joints, active therapeutic movement exercises to correct movement disorders, and spinal decompression to help relieve numbness and tingling down your arms and legs. Dowdy Rudolph Chiropractic also offers a state-of-the-art full-body lounge hydromassage table that can help you feel more rejuvenated and relaxed. See ad, page 9.

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Dr. Feneisha Franklin believes health care should feel personal, not rushed. At Living Well Family Medicine, patients ages 13 and older receive the time, attention and direct physician access they deserve. With a special heart for veterans and older adults, Dr. Franklin provides compassionate care that honors each patient’s unique needs and life experiences. Her membership-based, insurance-free model offers same-week appointments, virtual visits, preventive care, chronic disease management and ongoing physician support. She is currently welcoming new patients seeking a more personal, connected and intentional approach to their health. Don’t just live. Live well. See ad, back page.

Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.

FOOT SAVI

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GRIEF/BEREAVEMENT SERVICES GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT RESOURCE CENTER INC

Sylvia Grant, MSW, BSW, GC-C 140 Stoneridge Dr, Ste 430, Columbia 803-606-3032 (text) or 803-386-9069 (call) Info@GriefAndBereavementrc.org GriefAndBereavementrc.org The Grief and Bereavement Resource Center, founded by Army veteran Sylvia Grant, MSW, provides compassionate support, counseling and educational resources to help individuals and families navigate loss. Rooted in community care, the center empowers people to process grief, find healing, and thrive through shared support and professional guidance. It’s time to stop hurting and start healing. You don’t have to do it alone. Call to make an appointment today.

UNITY IN HEALING

Leah Saliter, Yoga Teacher, Death Doula UnityInHealingllc@gmail.com UnityInHealingllc.com Embark on a journey of gentle healing and soulful restoration. Unity in Healing offers compassionate, body-centered practices that support you through grief, stress, transition and growth. Through yoga, breathwork, meditation, spiritual care and grief support, we create space for you to soften, listen inward and reconnect with what brings you steadiness and peace. Our offerings are designed to meet you exactly where you are, honoring your story, your body and your pace. Whether you are navigating loss, seeking grounding in a busy world, or longing for a deeper sense of meaning and connection, Unity in Healing provides a nurturing space where rest becomes medicine, presence becomes healing and community becomes a source of strength.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS ORIGINAL ORIGINS HEALTH AND WELLNESS

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Donna Mack and her team bring over 30 years of combined experience in offering health and wellness classes. Our courses are designed to empower participants to live their healthiest and happiest lives as they age. We’ve seen firsthand how gaining greater understanding of health impacts and making simple changes in lifestyles can lead to real healing. We offer a signature Healthy Body Health class to provide you with an “owner’s manual” for your body, offering practical tools and a personalized plan to help you take charge of maintaining your health for a lifetime. Call to make an appointment today.

HERBS & DETOX

INTEGRATIVE & HOLISTIC MEDICINE

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EXPECT WELLNESS

Integrative/Holistic medicine consults for anyone wanting to approach their health more naturally. Dr. Rachel Hall is board certified in both family medicine and integrative holistic medicine. Together we will focus on finding the root of the problem, not just treating symptoms. Call today for a consult if you are looking to achieve balance. In-house diagnostic labs and therapies. See ad, page 25.

Jacquelyn Odom 7825 Broad River Rd, Ste 200, Irmo 828-590-1228 • SewAndHeal@gmail.com SewAndHeal.My.Canva.Site Sew and Heal is a nonprofit organization founded by Jaqueline, inspired by her journey of using sewing as an outlet to overcome the challenges of PTSD, anxiety and depression stemming from her military trauma. The organization empowers women and children to find healing and creativity through the art of sewing, turning pain into purpose. Sew and Heal provides a safe and supportive space for healing through sewing. Their mission is to foster emotional well-being, creativity and connection.

MASSAGE THERAPY

THERMOGRAPHY

JAN SHAW PERSONAL TRAINING & MASSAGE

DEVINE CHIROPRACTIC AND THERMOGRAPHY

Dr. Rachel Hall 130 Suber Rd, Columbia 803-796-1702 • DrRachelHall.com reception@drrachelhall.com Find us on Facebook for great health tips.

(MAS1935) 806 12th St, West Columbia 803-360-7895 • JanShawHealth.com

Jan Shaw has many years of experience in exercise physiology and massage. She specializes in the John F. Barnes method of Myofascial Release Therapy; holds an M.S. in Exercise Science; has worked in rehab medicine for 10 years re-training patients with a myriad of physical injuries; and is skilled in MFR 1, 2, Unwinding, SES and Cervicothoracic. Whatever your needs, Shaw has the education and experience to help you.

MENTAL WELLNESS

SPHINX PAW BRIGHT SIDE COUNSELING 3400 Two Notch Rd, Columbia 2277 Sunset Blvd, W Columbia 803-754-3922 888-796-1117 SphinxPaw.com Admin@BrightSideCenter.com Discover a haven for holistic well-being at Sphinx Paw. Sphinx Paw has been at the forefront of healing in the Columbia area since 2007. We offer a diverse selection of herbs, books, candles and incense to support natural detoxification, personal healing and spiritual growth. Embrace your wellness journey with our thoughtfully chosen products and expert guidance. Our distinctive resources promote holistic self-care, natural detoxification, weight loss, personal healing, and spiritual growth throughout all phases of life. Sphinx Paw has everything you need to support you in a life of health excellence and well-being.

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Real People, Real Hope, Real Change. Our therapy practice offers compassionate, personalized care for individuals, couples and families. We have a diverse group of licensed clinicians who specialize in anxiety, autism, depression, substance use, grief, LGBTQ+, trauma and more. We offer in-person and virtual appointments, flexible scheduling, and accept all major insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. Give us a call, and our referral specialist will help you find a therapist who’s the best fit for you—even if it’s not at our practice!

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SEW AND HEAL

Dr. Tracy Schoonover Young 2908 Devine St, Columbia 803-497-3860 • DevineChiroSC.com Dr. Tracy Schoonover Young has served Columbia since 1993, offering chiropractic care and advanced, noninvasive thermography. A certified thermologist, she uses this radiation-free technology to aid in screening for concerns involving breast health, the thyroid, vascular and nervous systems, muscular issues and lymphatic congestion. Thermography is a noninvasive scan that maps heat and circulation patterns, often showing change before symptoms. Your body has a unique thermal pattern, and shifts over time can suggest imbalances. Devine Chiropractic and Thermography provides breast, torso and full-body screenings, each followed by a personalized consultation to guide next steps.

YOGA AND MEDITATION SANTOSHA MINDFULNESS Kimberly Pavlik, PhD Owner and Ayurveda Specialist 954-257-8729 SantoshaMediaSC@gmail.com SantoshaMindfulness.com

Santosha Mindfulness offers wellness workshops, yoga for adults and children, mindfulness and meditation classes, sound baths and retreat hosting. A member of the Labyrinth Society, Yoga Alliance and World Yoga Federation, Santosha inspires intentional living through practices that nurture balance, well-being and personal growth. Live with Intention. Thrive with Santosha.

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September 2026